עָלֶמֶת

עָלֶמֶת

Alemeth, the name of a place in Palestine and of two Israelites

Definition

The Hebrew proper noun עָלֶמֶת (ʻÂlemeth) refers primarily to a place name and secondarily to personal names in the Old Testament. As a place, Alemeth is a town within the territory of Benjamin, assigned to the Levites (1 Chronicles 6:60). As a personal name, it identifies two individuals: a son of Jehoaddah (or Jarah) in the genealogy of Saul (1 Chronicles 8:36) and his descendant in a parallel list (1 Chronicles 9:42). It also appears as the name of a son of Becher from the tribe of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 7:8).

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively in the genealogical and geographical lists of 1 Chronicles. All four occurrences (1 Chronicles 6:60, 7:8, 8:36, 9:42) are in contexts detailing tribal lineages and Levitical settlements. Its usage is consistent as a proper noun, never appearing in narrative or poetic sections. The pattern shows it was a known location in Benjamin and a name carried within the tribe of Benjamin, including Saul's lineage.

Etymology

Derived from the root עָלַם (ʻālam, H5956), meaning 'to hide, conceal, or cover.' As a noun, עָלֶמֶת likely carries the sense of 'a hiding place' or 'concealment,' which may describe the geographical nature of the town or symbolize a protective name for individuals. It is related to the more common word for 'young woman' (עַלְמָה, ʻalmāh), which shares the root's connotation of being hidden or of marriageable age.

Semantic Range

While primarily a name, its etymological connection to 'covering' or 'hiding' can enrich reflection on God's providence in genealogies and land allotments. The town's assignment to the Levites (1 Chronicles 6:60) highlights God's faithful provision for His servants, ensuring they had a place, perhaps even a 'refuge,' within Israel. Understanding the name's root reminds readers that God often works through seemingly obscure places and people in His redemptive plan. In ancient Israel, place names often described physical characteristics or commemorated events. A town named 'Hiding Place' might have been situated in a concealed or defensible location. Personal names derived from places or traits were common, linking individuals to family heritage or hoped-for attributes. The recurrence in Benjaminite genealogies underscores the importance of tribal and familial identity in Israel's culture. מַחְסֶה (maḥseh, H4268) — a more direct term for 'refuge' or 'shelter,' whereas Alemeth is a proper name with that underlying connotation. עַלְמָה (ʻalmāh, H5959) — a common noun for 'young woman,' sharing the same root but with a distinct semantic development.

Word Details